Faulkners Surveyors Croydon

If you’re planning to undertake construction work on a shared boundary with your neighbour, you might need a party wall agreement.

It’s a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and rights of both parties involved in the construction process.

Your Options if You Disagree with a Party Wall Surveyor

Undertaking works that may affect a party wall requires property owners to follow the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This legislation requires property owners in Croydon to obtain a Party Wall Award and appoint a party wall surveyor to oversee the works. However, what happens when property owners disagree with their surveyor’s recommendations or decisions? This article will explore your options when you disagree with your party wall surveyor.

Understanding Your Rights as a Property Owner

As a property owner, you have the right to disagree with your party wall surveyor if you believe their recommendations or decisions are unfair or unreasonable. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out the process for resolving disputes between property owners and their surveyors. This process includes the following steps:

Informal Discussion: The first step is to have an informal discussion with your surveyor to try and resolve the dispute. This may involve presenting additional evidence or making a counter-argument.
Appoint an Agreed Surveyor: If you are unable to resolve the dispute informally, you can appoint an agreed surveyor to act on behalf of both parties. This surveyor will assess the situation and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Appoint a Third Surveyor: If the agreed surveyor is unable to make a decision or if either party disagrees with the decision, a third surveyor can be appointed. This surveyor will act as an impartial adjudicator and make a final decision on the matter.

What Are Your Options When You Disagree with Your Party Wall Surveyor?

If you disagree with your party wall surveyor in Croydon, there are several options available to you. These include:

Seeking a Second Opinion: If you believe that your surveyor’s recommendations or decisions are unfair or unreasonable, you can seek a second opinion from another party wall surveyor. This surveyor can assess the situation and provide an independent assessment of the dispute.
Appointing an Agreed Surveyor: If you are unable to resolve the dispute informally, you can appoint an agreed surveyor to act on behalf of both parties. This surveyor will assess the situation and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Seeking Legal Advice: If you are unable to resolve the dispute through informal discussions or appointing an agreed surveyor, you may need to seek legal advice. A solicitor can advise you on your legal rights and help you take the matter to court if necessary.

Conclusion

Disputes between property owners and party wall surveyors in Croydon can be frustrating and time-consuming. However, it’s important to remember that you have options when you disagree with your surveyor’s recommendations or decisions. Whether you seek a second opinion, appoint an agreed surveyor, or seek legal advice, it’s essential to take action to protect your property and your rights. Contact Faulkners, a trusted surveying company in Croydon, for expert advice on party wall matters and resolving disputes with your surveyor.